Aerate and
Dethatch Lawns: Aerate and
dethatch lawns so water has an easier path to penetrate to the roots. Aeration also
helps reduce water runoff. Thatch is made of organic materials such as dead grass
and grass roots. If not removed, it inhibits healthy grass growth. Once the lawn
is aerated and dethatched, apply a light layer of lawn top dressing to keep in
moisture.

Thin Out Fruit
Trees: During May, fruit
trees are often loaded with an abundance of small fruit. Some of the immature
fruit will fall off naturally. If there still appears to be too much, remove
smaller or discolored fruit by hand. By doing so, stronger fruit will grow
larger and tastier.

Keep Fungus From Forming on Plants: A powdery mildew fungus, which stunts plant growth,
can form on plants when plants remain wet for long periods. To prevent fungus,
water only the soil around the plants, not the plants themselves. If the leaves
must get wet, water in the morning so the leaves have a chance to dry during
the day. Prune undergrowth so airflow can circulate around the plant

Think Exotic: This is the time to plant subtropical fruits
such as bananas, cherimoyas, guavas, persimmons and papayas. These trees do
best when temperatures stay above freezing and extreme swings in temperatures
are avoided. To keep a balanced temperature, place the trees close to walls and
cover when temperatures drop. Trees take several years to bear fruit.

Support Tomatoes: Use tomato trusses or cages to keep tomato
stems from breaking under the weight of ripening fruit, especially the larger
sized “beef steak” tomatoes. Pull the stems through the cage wire so they are
supported.

May is Ideal for Planting Almost Any
Flower: Plant your warm season annuals in May for a
full summer of color. These include begonia, chrysanthemum, geranium, marigold,
petunia and verbena. While annuals come and go, perennials will bring backyard
enjoyment for years to come. Perennials to plant now include African daisy,
delphinium, fuchsia and lavender.

Plant Melons and Squash: It's time to plant eggplant, melons,
squash, cucumbers, peppers and corn in the garden. If container gardening, this
is the last month to plant peppers, eggplants and tomatoes and expect hearty
returns.